Alma W. Thomas: A Retrospective of the Paintings

"Alma W. Thomas: A Retrospective of the Paintings" delves into the life of Alma Woodsey Thomas, a pioneering African American artist whose vibrant works and indomitable spirit transcended the racial and gender constraints of her time. Born in 1891, Thomas's journey through the evolution of civil rights and her groundbreaking achievements—including being the first graduate from Howard University's art department and later, the first African American woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum—are vividly captured in this comprehensive exhibition catalog. Released on January 1, 1998, and featuring full-color reproductions of her bold, abstract paintings, this book not only celebrates Thomas's artistic genius but also her role as a steadfast advocate for racial justice and gender equality. Ideal for adult education settings, this retrospective encourages readers to explore the intersections of art, history, and social change, inspiring reflection on how individual creativity can challenge societal boundaries.